You consider yourself handy when it comes to most home projects, but are you really qualified to fix plumbing leaks? After all, there’s a reason that plumbing certification exists in the first place. Dealing with issues like leaky pipes is not always a simple fix.
Still, perhaps you’re going back and forth about trying to tackle this problem on your own. Well, this article should help you decide. We’ve outlined everything you need to know about leaky pipes.
By the end of the reading, you’ll see exactly why it’s not ideal to handle this without the experts. Keep reading to see how working with the best plumber in your area is a better choice.
Importance of Fixing Leaky Pipes
You might underestimate it at first, but leaky pipes in the home can be a big problem. They can cause water damage, mold, and other issues. It’s important to fix leaky pipes as soon as possible to avoid these problems.
Water damage can be expensive to fix and can cause structural damage to the home. A leak in the pipes can also lead to mold growth, which can cause health problems for you and your family.
Mold can be especially harmful if you have asthma or allergies. It can also cause respiratory problems, headaches, and other health issues.
Plus, fixing leaky pipes can help you save money on your water bill. Otherwise, they can waste a lot of water, which can add up over time.
Signs Your Pipes Are Leaking
There are several signs of leaky pipes in the home to keep an eye out for. One major sign is low water pressure.
Another sign of leaky pipes is water discoloration. If your water looks brown or yellow, it could be a sign of rust or corrosion in your pipes.
Water stains on your ceiling or walls could also indicate a plumbing issue. When this happens, investigate the source of the leak before it causes even more damage.
Unpleasant odors in your home can also be a clue that you have leaky pipes. In this case, you would notice a musty or sewage-like smell.
Don’t wait too long before attending to these signs of leaky pipes. Ignoring them could worsen the damage they’re already doing to your home.
The DIY Route
You might assume that you can handle a plumbing repair on your own. Many homeowners would prefer this route to save money on hiring experts.
Home improvements can be expensive, after all. They even generated over $538 billion in 2021 alone. Here’s how you might attempt to fix leaky pipes.
The first step is to identify the location of the leak. This can be done by checking for water stains or wet spots.
Once you’ve identified the location of the leak, you’d turn off the water supply to that area of the home. For small leaks, might be able to can patch the leak with a sealant or tape. For larger leaks, you would need to replace damaged pipes.
After you think you’ve fixed it, you still need to test for any remaining leaks. Turn the water supply back on and check for any signs of leaking.
The risk here is that you might’ve only solved the problem short-term. Other leaks might occur soon enough, and you’d have to call an expert to fix it anyway. When you hire professionals, though, you can trust that the leak is repaired the first time the right way.
Calling a Professional Instead
If there’s extensive damage to your pipes or plumbing system, it’s best to call a professional immediately. They will have the knowledge and experience to fix the problem correctly. Attempting to fix the leak yourself could cause more damage and cost more in the long run.
Safety concerns should also be taken into consideration. The experts are trained on ensuring their own safety and the safety of others while they work.
Finding the Right Plumber Near You
Don’t trust just anyone to work on your home’s plumbing, though. You deserve to only hire the best plumber in your area. Here’s how you can find them.
Recommendations from family and friends are a good place to start. They may have had a good experience with a plumber in the past and can connect you with someone reliable.
Online reviews and ratings can also be helpful. Look for plumbers with high ratings and positive reviews from past customers.
Credentials and experience are important factors to consider when choosing a plumber, too. Look for those with the right certifications or special training in their field.
Lastly, you’ll want to look into their licensing and insurance. This will ensure that you’re protected in case of any accidents or damages during the repair process.
Cost Considerations
It’s true that DIY costs are generally lower than professional costs. However, DIY repairs may not always be the best option. Doing them wrong could just cost you more in the future.
Professional plumbing costs can vary depending on the extent of the damage, to start. The complexity of the plumbing system and the plumber’s experience can also contribute to the cost. It might also involve the location of the leak, the type of repair required, and the cost of any necessary materials.
If you’re concerned about paying for these services, that’s okay. There should be financing options for you to consider.
Prevention Tips
Regular maintenance is important to keep your pipes in good condition. This could prevent leaky pipes in the first place.
This includes inspecting them for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Be sure to have them cleaned regularly.
Avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain, too. Lastly, always use a drain cover to prevent hair and other debris from clogging the pipes.
Get Those Leaky Pipes Fixed!
You might be the savviest homeowner in the world, ready to tackle repairs and maintenance that arise. Still, when it comes to leaky pipes, don’t risk worsening the issue. Instead, work with reliable plumbers in your area.
That’s where we at Anton’s can be of such value. Our team is on hand to fix your home’s leaky pipes and more. Reach out to us about our plumbing services available to you now.
